James L. Bates' Obituary
James Leroy Bates passed away at the age of 80 on Dec. 12, 2012.
He was born April 5, 1932 in Parkland, WA. He leaves a wife of forty-five years, Mary Bates, four children, Roger Bates, Sherry Stovner (Mark), Curtis Bates, and Greg Bates, and 3 grandchildren, Kyle Stovner, Leanna Bates, and Kaden Stovner.
James was preceded in death by his parents Earl and Babe Bates, and son Jimmy Jr. Bates. James was a longtime member of AA who helped many in recovery. He loved long drives, fishing in the ocean, and making people smile with his joyful demeanor.
There will be a celebration of his life memorial Saturday, February 9th, 2013 at 1 pm at Mountain View Funeral home in Lakewood in the Celebration of Life Center Oak Room.
Arrangements by Mountain View Funeral Home, 253-584-0252. Please sign the online guest book at www.mountainviewtacoma.com.
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